above all

adverb

: before every other consideration : especially

Examples of above all in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In Naples, Catholic symbolism-above all the image of the Virgin Mary -permeates the city. Vogue, 5 Sep. 2025 That synchronization was premised on an agreement that scientific evidence, above all else, would guide vaccine recommendations. Katherine J. Wu, The Atlantic, 5 Sep. 2025 In an essay published in Vogue, longtime magazine editor Anna Wintour characterized Armani as a steely, dedicated and, above all, innovative force in the fashion industry. Anna Kaufman, USA Today, 5 Sep. 2025 Both Lebanon and Syria are emerging from devastating sectarian conflicts, foreign interference, and destruction at the hands of the Iranian regime and non-state actors who prioritized extremist ideology above all. semafor.com, 3 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for above all

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of above all was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Above all.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/above%20all. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on above all

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!